How Long Is a Check Valid For?

Checks generally do not have expiration dates, and banks may cash checks even if they were written more than six months in the past. However, banks have the option to honor or dishonor a check more than six months old.

Based on the Uniform Commercial Code in force as of 2014, banks are required to cash certified checks regardless of when they were written. Noncertified checks may feature an expiration date, and banks are not required to honor checks that have passed their expiration dates. Even when someone writes a check that remains uncashed for more than six months, the financial obligation addressed by the payment is still relevant, and the payee may request a replacement check or other form of payment.